There’s something downright magical about the phrase Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes. Just hearing it makes me want to slip into my fluffiest socks and cue up a feel-good movie. This recipe is comfort food at its very finest: tender potatoes, savory bites of ham, gooey melted cheese, and that creamy hug of mushroom soup all slow-cooked to cozy perfection. If your idea of a perfect evening includes minimal dishes and maximum flavor, you’re in the right place. This recipe feels like a warm blanket on a chilly evening—and trust me, you’re going to want seconds (and maybe thirds).
If you’ve been looking for a slow cooker dinner that’s just as perfect for a weeknight as it is for a Sunday dinner with family, this is the one. And bonus—it’s a total kid-pleaser and freezer-friendly too. Let’s get comfy and cook!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
- Ridiculously Easy: Minimal chopping, layering, and then the slow cooker takes it from there.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy, hearty goodness.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it once, enjoy it all week.
- Cozy Comfort: It’s basically a hug in a bowl.
- Budget-Friendly: A few simple ingredients turn into pure magic.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make your kitchen smell like heaven:
- 6 to 8 slices of ham, chopped (leftover holiday ham works wonders!)
- 4 to 5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced (Yukon Gold or Russets are perfection)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (or your fave melty cheese)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (undiluted)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, as needed (optional)
Pro Tip: Feel free to throw in a handful of frozen peas or corn during the last hour for a little pop of color and extra veggie goodness!
Instructions
1. Layer the Ingredients:
Lightly grease your slow cooker with a bit of butter or nonstick spray. Start by layering sliced potatoes on the bottom. Add some chopped ham, a sprinkle of onion, a dash of salt and pepper, and a little cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a nice, cheesy top layer.
2. Add the Soup:
Pour that glorious can of cream of mushroom soup evenly over everything. Gently spread it with the back of a spoon for full coverage.
3. Slow Cook:
Cover and set to low. Cook for 6–7 hours, until the potatoes are melt-in-your-mouth tender and your kitchen smells like a dream.
Peek at the 4-hour mark! If it looks a little dry, add a splash of water to keep everything perfectly moist.
4. Serve:
Grab a big spoon, dish out hearty bowls, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, hammy bite.
Sara’s Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
- Slice the potatoes evenly so they all cook at the same pace. No half-crunchy spuds, please!
- Use pre-cooked ham (like deli ham or leftovers) so you don’t worry about raw meat.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture compared to the pre-shredded bags.
- Season between layers—a little salt and pepper in each one builds great flavor.
Bake It With the Littles
This recipe is so simple, it’s practically begging for little helpers!
Here’s how to get the kids involved:
- Let them layer the potatoes, ham, and cheese. (Think edible Jenga!)
- Have them spread the mushroom soup with a mini spatula.
- Younger kids can sprinkle the cheese (and sneak a few bites—you’ve been warned).
When kiddos help, the end result just tastes extra special. Plus, they’ll be so proud they made dinner!
Meal-Prep Magic
Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes isn’t just a one-night wonder.
Here’s how to stretch it:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro tip: Freeze flat to save space and for faster thawing later!
Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until piping hot and creamy again.
Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic
Want to lighten it up a smidge? Here’s how:
- Use reduced-fat cheese or less cheese overall (but don’t skip it!)
- Try low-sodium ham and low-sodium cream of mushroom soup.
- Substitute Greek yogurt stirred into the mushroom soup for a protein boost and a lighter feel.
- Swap half the potatoes for cauliflower florets to sneak in some veggies!
Trust me, it’ll still feel indulgent but be a little easier on your jeans.
Leftover Remix
Leftovers? Oh, honey, you are about to live your best leftover life.
Here are some fun ideas:
- Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup: Toss leftovers in a pot with a little chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer and blend slightly.
- Breakfast Hash: Chop it up, fry it with some eggs, and call it brunch!
- Loaded Baked Potato Topping: Spoon it over a split baked potato for a seriously decadent meal.
Gift It Like a Pro
Few things say “I love you” like a homemade casserole delivered with a smile.
Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes is perfect for:
- New parents
- A friend recovering from surgery
- Your sweet neighbor who always brings your packages inside
Pack it in a disposable foil tray with a handwritten reheating note. A cozy dinner is one of the best gifts you can give!
FAQs
Can I use a different soup?
Absolutely! Cream of chicken or even cheddar soup would be delish.
What’s the best kind of potato to use?
Yukon Golds are creamy and hold their shape, but Russets give you that fall-apart goodness.
Can I add veggies?
You bet! Frozen peas, corn, or even green beans are great tossed in during the last hour of cooking.
Can I cook it on high?
If you’re short on time, cook on high for about 3–4 hours, but low and slow makes it extra tender.
Final Thought
If you’ve been craving a meal that feels like a cozy hug (and honestly, who isn’t?), this Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes is ready to deliver. Easy enough for a Tuesday, comforting enough for a Sunday supper, and hearty enough to feed your hungriest loved ones. Whether you’re serving it up after a long day or dishing it out for a family gathering, it’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table with happy hearts and full bellies. Happy slow cooking, my friend!
Print
Slow Cooker Ham and Potatoes
- Total Time: 6.5–7.5 hours
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 slices of ham, chopped
- 4 to 5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar works great!)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (undiluted)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, as needed (optional)
Instructions
Layer the Ingredients:
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker.
Start with a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom. Add a handful of chopped ham, some chopped onion, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a bit of grated cheese.
Repeat the layers until all your ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
Add the Soup:
Pour the undiluted can of cream of mushroom soup evenly over the top.
Use a spatula or spoon to gently spread it out if needed—this will help everything cook nice and creamy.
Slow Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors are fully melded.
Check around the 4-hour mark—if things look a little dry, add just a splash of water to keep the bottom from sticking.
Serve:
Spoon the creamy, cheesy ham and potatoes into bowls and serve warm. Perfect for cozy nights or an easy family dinner!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 of the recipe)
- Calories: 333
- Sugar: 2.8g
- Sodium: 771mg
- Fat: 14.2g
- Saturated Fat: 6.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0.17g
- Carbohydrates: 29.8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 61mg